The Parent of Kuma’s Corner Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy | Eater Chicago

"Since its founding in Avondale in 2005, Kuma’s Corner built a reputation on pairing heavy metal and craft beer — even aligning with festivals like 3 Floyd’s Dark Lord Day — and on thick, messy, oversized burgers that stand in contrast to the current smash-burger trend. I note that Kumas Holdings recently filed for Chapter 11, but the four remaining restaurants (including locations in Fulton Market, Woodfield Village Green, and Indianapolis) remain open as separate legal entities, and Ron Cain insists “we are not going anywhere.” Over the years the chain has dialed down its once-brash music and craft-beer focus to fit into markets like Fulton Market, but its menu staples endure: the Led Zeppelin (bacon, barbecue pulled pork, cheddar, and pickles) is a classic, and the restaurant is no stranger to controversy — notably a 2013 Ghost tribute burger topped with a communion wafer that drew Catholic outrage and a Time write-up. Ron Cain says he hopes to return Kuma’s to its roots with community fundraisers, a burger-of-the-month supporting an 11-year-old girl badly injured by bullies, and plans to mark the 20th anniversary in 2025 with talk of bringing back Kuma’s Fest." - Ashok Selvam